It was $63 to file when I did it a few years ago.
The maximum at that time was $3000, plus court costs.
If you win, you absolutely can collect. There is an orange book at the courthouse that tells you how to collect on a judgment. If a person has 2 judgments outstanding, you cannot garnish wages, you just have to wait your turn and may never see a dime. If she has no judgments, and has a job, you can garnish. Small claims is like any other court. Ask for all money she owes, and anything you can show that you spent while trying to collect (court filing fees at the least). BE REASONABLE.
How to win:
Have a case. If you have nothing in writing or recorded, it may not be worth taking to court, unless you can get her to admit that she owes. If you DO have that, or witness testimony, then you may have a case. You need to do everything in your power to collect before it goes to court, and you need to look reasonable in doing so. Have you talked to her mom? Have you been civil, or like 'Bitch where's my money?'. If you have done all of these things and you look like a good guy who got screwed, then you can serve her. Have all of your evidence in order, so that when it is asked for, you can provide it. If she hires a lawyer (not likely, but possible) you may need to hand over copies of your evidence (discovery). If you refuse or don't have something when the lawyer asks for it, you may not be able to use it as evidence.
How to serve:
Go to the courthouse where the violation occurred and file with the court. They will help walk you through it. You need a VALID address where she lives, the court documents need to be accurate, otherwise you can lose. This is called 'perfecting service'. It is crucial.
Good luck.